Albanian Food, Sea Views, and Friendly Faces: Why Everyone Falls in Love with the South

Let me tell you something I’ve seen time and time again—people come to the south of Albania for the views, but they stay for the feeling.

It’s not just the turquoise water or the mountains that seem to rise straight out of the sea (though those help). It’s something deeper. It’s the warmth of a freshly baked byrek, the slow clink of coffee cups in the morning breeze, the way a stranger will wave at you from their balcony just because you’re passing by.

I’ve lived in Saranda for years now, and I work in real estate, which means I get to see that spark in people’s eyes when they realize… this could be home. And let me tell you—it never gets old.

Last week, I showed a client a stunning beachfront property in Ksamil—a modern duplex just a few steps from the sand. When we stepped out onto the terrace and saw the sea stretching endlessly in front of us, he just stood there in silence for a moment. Then he said, “Why doesn’t everyone live like this?” And I couldn’t help but smile.

Let’s Start With the Obvious: The Views

The Albanian Riviera is a place that still feels raw and real. You don’t need filters here—the colors are already perfect. The sea changes shades depending on the time of day: light aqua in the morning, deep sapphire by sunset. And when the sun sets behind Corfu… you’ll want to bottle that moment forever.

There’s a reason people are looking for seaview apartments in Saranda. It’s not just the beauty—it’s the peace that comes with it. Waking up to the sound of waves is something you quickly get used to, and let me tell you, it’s addictive.

Some of the best views aren’t even from the beach. There’s a tiny taverna near Borsh beach—no sign, no Instagram page—just fresh fish and tables set out under olive trees. I love bringing clients there after a long day of viewings. It’s calm. Quiet. Honest. And when they look around and ask if people actually live like this, I get to say, “Yes. You can too.”

But the Food? Oh, the Food.

You haven’t really experienced Albania until someone’s grandmother has insisted you try a third helping of stuffed peppers.

In the south, food is love. And it’s everywhere. Whether you’re at a waterfront restaurant in Ksamil eating freshly grilled octopus or grabbing qofte and warm bread from a roadside grill in Lukovë, the flavors stick with you.

One of my favorite routines (especially in the off-season) is walking to the local bakery near Rruga Butrinti. I grab a spinach byrek and a glass of dhallë and just sit on the wall overlooking the sea. It’s nothing fancy—but it’s everything.

And I’ve noticed—when people come here to look at affordable properties in Saranda, it’s often the food that makes them feel at home. It’s familiar, even if it’s new.

The People Make It Magic

Hospitality isn’t something we perform here. It’s just who we are.

I remember one winter, I had a client from Germany come to see a villa in Saranda—incredible panoramic views, modern finishes, great investment potential. But what she talked about most wasn’t the house. It was the woman from the neighborhood who brought us hot tea while we waited for the keyholder. That tiny moment, that kindness, stuck with her.

And that’s the thing. In Saranda, Ksamil, Borsh—people still look you in the eye. They ask where you’re from. They mean it. There’s a simplicity in the interactions that I think a lot of folks from big cities have forgotten how to value.

Also, a small note if you’re thinking of moving here full-time—get ready to wave back. We wave at everyone. It’s a thing.

Real Estate That Still Makes Sense

Okay, I might go on a bit of a tangent here—but I truly believe Saranda offers the best value on the entire Mediterranean coast.

Where else can you get a two-bedroom seaview apartment with parking included in a prime location for under €200,000? I’ve had clients come here after looking in Croatia, Italy, even Greece—and they’re genuinely surprised at what their budget can stretch to in southern Albania.

And this isn’t just budget real estate—it’s high-quality, modern builds, especially in projects developed by Klajdi Construction (yes, we’re proud of the standard we keep). Plus, many properties are steps from the beach, and some even come with rental potential built in.

But the numbers are only part of it. What I love most is seeing people fall in love with a lifestyle they didn’t expect—where lunch lasts two hours, and you start recognizing the same faces on your daily walk.